Bar, (MINA-BUSINESS) – The Port of Bar must remain under the full control of the state of Montenegro, the representative unions of the company stated.

“We reject any model that, under the pretext of modernization, partnership, or investment, would enable the takeover of management, reduction of workers’ rights, or the weakening of state control over its most important port. If workers’ rights and state interests are threatened, the unions will be ready to take more radical steps and call on the citizens of Bar to stand together with employees in defense of the Port of Bar,” both representative unions said tin a press release.

In response to announcements that the future of the Port of Bar is being considered through talks with Abu Dhabi Ports, the unions expressed serious concern and clearly stated that it is unacceptable for decisions regarding strategic state infrastructure to be made without full public consultations, without guarantees for employees, and without genuine involvement of the unions.

“The Port of Bar is not an ordinary company, but Montenegro’s maritime gateway, an important part of Bar’s economy, and a key link in the country’s transport, railway, and logistics system.,” the press release reads.

According to the unions, behind the Port of Bar stand not only figures, contracts, and interests, but also more than 500 families who directly depend on work at the port, as well as many citizens of Bar and Montenegro whose livelihoods are tied to its survival and development.